The Emerald Cut Diamonds: A Guide to Choosing the Right Setting and Design

Introduction to Emerald Cut Diamonds

Emerald cut diamonds are a type of diamond that is characterized by their rectangular shape and step-cut faceting pattern. They are named after the emerald gemstone, which is also cut in this style.

Emerald cut diamonds have a unique and elegant appearance, with long, rectangular facets that stretch across the surface of the diamond. These facets are arranged in a precise, geometric pattern, creating a clean and symmetrical look.

One of the defining characteristics of emerald cut diamonds is their “hall of mirrors” effect, which is created by the elongated facets that run along the length of the stone. This gives the diamond a highly reflective quality and can make it appear larger than it actually is.

Emerald cut diamonds facts table

Fact	Description
Shape	Rectangular with truncated corners
Faceting pattern	Step cut, with long, rectangular facets arranged in a precise, geometric pattern
Characteristics	Clean and symmetrical appearance, “hall of mirrors” effect, elongated and rectangular shape
Popularity	Less common than round brilliant cut diamonds, but still a popular choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry
Clarity considerations	Emerald cut diamonds tend to show blemishes and inclusions more prominently than other diamond cuts, due to their large, open facets
Color grading	Graded on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow)
Carat weight	Can range from small to large
Certification	It is important to purchase an emerald cut diamond from a reputable dealer and to look for a diamond that has been certified by a reputable organization like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA)
Settings	Traditional solitaire, halo, three-stone, bezel, pave, and channel settings are all popular options for emerald cut diamonds

Emerald cut diamonds are often chosen for their classic and sophisticated look, and they are a popular choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry. They are also considered to be a more “conservative” choice compared to round brilliant cut diamonds, which are the most popular type of diamond.

Overall, emerald cut diamonds are a beautiful and timeless choice for those looking for a unique and elegant diamond.

History of emerald cut diamonds

The emerald cut is a type of diamond cut that was developed in the early 20th century, specifically for the cutting of emerald gemstones. The first recorded use of the emerald cut for diamonds was in the 1930s.

The emerald cut was developed as a way to maximize the weight and size of emeralds, while also preserving their natural beauty and clarity. The rectangular shape and step-cut faceting pattern of the emerald cut allowed for these goals to be achieved.

Over time, the emerald cut became popular for diamonds as well as emeralds, and it is now one of the most iconic and recognizable diamond cuts. It is particularly popular for engagement rings and other fine jewelry, and is often chosen for its classic and sophisticated appearance.

In recent years, the popularity of emerald cut diamonds has increased, as more and more people are seeking out unique and unusual diamond cuts that stand out from the more traditional round brilliant cut. Despite this trend, the emerald cut remains a timeless and classic choice for those looking for a diamond with a unique and elegant appearance.

Characteristics of emerald cut diamonds

Emerald cut diamonds are characterized by their rectangular shape and step-cut faceting pattern. The rectangular shape of emerald cut diamonds is elongated and rectangular, with truncated corners. This shape is created by cutting four beveled corners into the diamond, which gives it a distinctive appearance.

The faceting pattern of emerald cut diamonds is a type of step cut, which means that the facets are arranged in a series of steps that run parallel to the sides of the diamond. This creates a series of parallel lines that run along the length of the diamond, giving it a highly reflective and “hall of mirrors” effect.

In terms of size, emerald cut diamonds can range from small to large, depending on the carat weight of the diamond. Emerald cut diamonds are often chosen for their elegant and sophisticated appearance, and they are a popular choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry.

Settings emerald cut diamonds

There are many options for setting emerald cut diamonds, including:

1. Traditional solitaire setting: This is a classic and timeless setting that showcases the diamond on its own, with no additional accents. The diamond is typically set in a prong setting, with four or six prongs holding the diamond in place.
2. Halo setting: In a halo setting, small diamonds or other gemstones are set around the center diamond, creating a “halo” effect. This can add extra sparkle and drama to the overall design.
3. Three-stone setting: A three-stone setting features three diamonds or gemstones set in a row, with the center diamond typically being the largest. This setting can symbolize a couple’s past, present, and future together.
4. Bezel setting: In a bezel setting, the diamond is encased in a metal rim that surrounds it on all sides. This can be a more secure setting, as it protects the diamond from damage and helps to keep it in place.
5. Pave setting: A pave setting features small diamonds or gemstones that are set closely together, creating a “paved” effect. This can add extra sparkle and drama to the overall design.
6. Channel setting: In a channel setting, diamonds or other gemstones are set into a channel of metal, with the stones sitting side-by-side. This creates a sleek and streamlined look.

Buying an emerald cut diamond

When shopping for an emerald cut diamond, there are a few key factors to consider:

1. Clarity: Emerald cut diamonds tend to show blemishes and inclusions more prominently than other diamond cuts, due to their large, open facets. It is important to choose a diamond with good clarity, as any blemishes or inclusions will be more noticeable in an emerald cut diamond.
2. Color: Emerald cut diamonds are graded on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). Diamonds in the D-F range are considered to be the highest quality and have the least amount of color. However, some people prefer diamonds with a slight yellow or brown tint, which can be a more affordable option.
3. Carat weight: Emerald cut diamonds are typically priced by their carat weight, with larger diamonds being more expensive. It is important to consider your budget and choose a diamond that fits within your price range.
4. Certification: Make sure to purchase your emerald cut diamond from a reputable dealer and look for a diamond that has been certified by a reputable organization like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This will ensure that the diamond has been graded accurately and is of good quality.
5. Setting: Consider the setting in which you will be placing your emerald cut diamond. Traditional solitaire settings, halo settings, and three-stone settings are all popular choices for emerald cut diamonds.

Famous emerald cut diamonds

There are many famous emerald cut diamonds in history, including:

1. The Krupp Diamond: This 33.19 carat emerald cut diamond was famously worn by actress Elizabeth Taylor and was given to her by her husband, Richard Burton. The diamond was named after its original owner, Vera Krupp, a German industrialist’s wife.
2. The Taylor-Burton Diamond: This 69.42 carat emerald cut diamond was also owned by Elizabeth Taylor and was given to her by Richard Burton as a gift. It was later sold at auction in 2011.
3. The Rockefeller Diamond: This emerald cut diamond is a 70.50 carat stone that was owned by the Rockefeller family. It was sold at auction in 2017 for over $8 million.
4. The Emerald Empress: This is a 100.20 carat emerald cut diamond that is considered to be one of the largest and finest emerald cut diamonds in the world. It is currently owned by a private collector.
5. The De Beers Millennium Jewel 4: This is a flawless, pear-shaped emerald cut diamond that weighs in at a staggering 163.41 carats. It was unveiled by De Beers in 2000 and is currently on display at the Tower of London.

Frequently asked questions on Emerald cut diamonds

Here are a few frequently asked questions about emerald cut diamonds:

How does the cut of an emerald cut diamond affect its appearance?

The cut of an emerald cut diamond refers to the way in which the diamond has been shaped and faceted. A well-cut emerald cut diamond will have straight lines and even facets, which will give the diamond a clean and symmetrical appearance. A poorly cut emerald cut diamond, on the other hand, may have uneven or distorted facets, which can affect the diamond’s overall appearance and value.

Do emerald cut diamonds sparkle as much as other diamond cuts?

Emerald cut diamonds are known for their “hall of mirrors” effect, which is created by the elongated facets that run along the length of the stone. While they may not have the same intense sparkle as a round brilliant cut diamond, they can still be very reflective and eye-catching.

Are emerald cut diamonds a good choice for engagement rings?

Emerald cut diamonds are a popular choice for engagement rings due to their unique and elegant appearance. They are a classic and timeless choice that is sure to impress and are often paired with traditional solitaire or halo settings.

How do I care for an emerald cut diamond?

Emerald cut diamonds should be treated with the same care as any other diamond. It is important to keep the diamond clean and free of dirt and debris, and to have it professionally cleaned and inspected on a regular basis. It is also a good idea to have the diamond insured to protect it from damage or loss.

Are emerald cut diamonds rare?

Emerald cut diamonds are not necessarily rare, but they are less common than other diamond cuts like the round brilliant cut. This can make them more sought-after and potentially more expensive than other diamond cuts.

Can emerald cut diamonds be worn everyday?

Emerald cut diamonds can be worn everyday, as long as they are cared for properly. It is important to keep the diamond clean and free of dirt and debris, and to have it professionally cleaned and inspected on a regular basis. It is also a good idea to have the diamond insured to protect it from damage or loss.

Are emerald cut diamonds good for diamonds?

Emerald cut diamonds can be a good choice for diamonds, as they have a unique and elegant appearance that is sure to stand out. They are also a classic and timeless choice that is sure to impress.

Can emerald cut diamonds be worn with other types of jewelry?

Emerald cut diamonds can be worn with other types of jewelry, such as earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. They can also be paired with other gemstones, such as sapphires, rubies, and emeralds, to create a unique and eye-catching look.

How do I choose the best emerald cut diamond for me?

When choosing an emerald cut diamond, it is important to consider factors like clarity, color, and carat weight. It is also a good idea to shop around and compare prices from different retailers to find the best deal. It is also important to choose a reputable dealer and to look for a diamond that has been certified by a reputable organization like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).

Are emerald cut diamonds more expensive than other diamond cuts?

Emerald cut diamonds can vary in price, depending on factors like clarity, color, and carat weight. In general, emerald cut diamonds may be slightly more expensive than other diamond cuts, due to their unique and elegant appearance and the fact that they are less common than other cuts. However, there are many affordable options available, so it is possible to find an emerald cut diamond that fits within your budget.